Champagne Tour

Paris to Epernay (7-day electric bike tour)

Day 1: Paris - Lagny-sur-Marne - Paris, 23 mi. (38 km)
Day 2: Lagny-sur-Marne - Meaux, 13 or 26 mi.  (22 or 42 km)
Day 3: Meaux – La Ferté-sous-jouarre, 16 or 32 mi. (27 or 52 km)
Day 4: La-Ferté-sous-Jouarre – Château-Thierry, 24 or 26 mi. (40 or 44 km)
Day 5: Château-Thierry – Dormans – Epernay, 19 or 35 mi. (35 or 50 km)
Day 6: Epernay round tour, 11 or 16 mi. (19 or 26 km); visit Epernay and Champagne houses
Day 7: Departure from Epernay

 If there are 18 or more booked, two tour guides will be riding and on certain days can offer a longer or shorter itinerary. When there are less than 18 guests aboard, the tours will be accompanied by one knowledgeable and multi-lingual tour leader. During days when two bicycle options are possible, the tour leader will make a choice to guide the longer or the shorter option after consultation with the group.

Not all mentioned highlights can be visited during the short cycling option.

Day 1:  Paris/Lagny-sur-Marne
At 11 a.m., join the Marne river cruise in Lagny-sur-Marne. After a warm welcome, embark on a bike tour along the scenic river. Pedal past Champs-sur-Marne's enchanting chateaux and explore its beautiful gardens. Immerse yourself in the charm of 18th-century leisure residences and experience the grandeur of Château de Champs-sur-Marne, one of the most exquisite châteaux in Ile-de-France.

Day 2: Lagny-sur-Marne - Meaux, 13 or 26 mi. (22 or 42 km)
In Lagny-sur-Marne, you ride, mainly along the Marne river and its parallel canal. In case you opt for the short ride, the first challenge is the hill near Chalifert. The barge will take the tunnel through the hill, but cyclists can test their fitness and muscles for the first time by climbing and crossing the hill by bicycle. Also on the longer option, the first part is quite hilly because you have to leave the valley of the Marne. Later you will follow the small Canal de l’Ourq that was built by Napoleon to transport wood, grain, and freshwater to Paris. Today’s destination is the city of Meaux, famous for its “Brie de Meaux” cheeses and the magnificent Cathedral St.-Etienne. Night in Meaux.

Day 3: Meaux – La Ferté-sous-jouarre, 16 or 32 mi. (27 or 52 km)
Today, you have two cycling options. The shorter route takes you through charming villages and forests along the south bank of the Marne River, offering picturesque views and gentle slopes. The longer route begins in the river valley, passing through Trilport and Lizy-sur-Ourcq, before embarking on challenging hill climbs towards Jouarre. In Jouarre, indulge in a delightful presentation and tasting of the renowned Brie de Meaux and Brie noir cheeses at the family-run Fromagerie Ganot. Afterward, return to the boat for dinner and spend the night in La-Ferté-sous-Jouarre or a nearby village.

Day 4: La-Ferté-sous-Jouarre – Château-Thierry, 24 or 26 mi. (40 or 44 km)
Embark on a rewarding cycling adventure from La-Ferté-sous-Jouarre to Château-Thierry. Ride alongside the picturesque Marne River, then venture through scenic countryside, charming villages, and forested side valleys. Explore the notable WW1 American War Cemetery and Monument near Belleau, before descending towards Château-Thierry. Indulge in a delicious dinner on board and spend the night in this historic town, known for its castle, significant battles, and being the birthplace of renowned writer Jean de la Fontaine.

Day 5: Château-Thierry – Dormans – Epernay, 19 or 35 mi. (35 or 50 km)
During breakfast, the ship will take you to the lock of Mont St. Pierre or even a bit further upstream to Dormans. Today marks your entry into the official Champagne area. Dormans, a tranquil village on the Marne, boasts a castle and chapel commemorating the Battle of the Marne during World War I. As you cycle up the northern valley slope towards Châtillon-sur-Marne, you'll be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of the Marne valley and the Champagne vineyards. Along the way, don't miss the magnificent Château de Boursault, a grand castle built in 1848 by the widow of Mr. Cliquot, lending its name to the famous Champagne wine, "Veuve Cliquot." Tonight, there is no dinner on board, giving you the opportunity to choose from the delightful local restaurants in town.

Day 6:  Epernay round tour, 11 or 16 mi. (19 or 26 km)
The last half-day of cycling leads from Epernay and follows the peaceful canal parallel to the Marne River. You pedal your way to Ay and Mareuil-sur-Ay before returning via Dizy to visit Hautvillers where a rewarding ascent awaits as you reach this picturesque Champagne winegrowers' village on the southern slopes of the Montagne de Reims. Don't miss the highlight of the tour—a visit to the chapel with the tomb of Dom Pérignon, the influential monk who revolutionized winemaking techniques. Afterward, cycle back to Epernay and enjoy a tour of the town center, renowned for its magnificent neo-Renaissance and classical-style townhouses. Indulge in a Champagne tasting and take a tour of one of the major Champagne houses. Conclude the day with a delightful dinner on board and spend the night in Epernay.

Day 7: Departure from Epernay
Disembarkation after breakfast by 9:30 AM.

Epernay to Paris (7-day electric bike tour)

Day 1: Epernay round tour, 11 or 16 mi. (19 or 26 km)
Day 2: Epernay - Dormans - Château-Thierry, 19 or  35 mi. (35 or 50 km)
Day 3: Château-Thierry - La-Ferté-sous-Jouarre, 24 or 26 mi. (40 or 44 km)
Day 4: La-Ferté-sous-Jouarre – Meaux,  18 or 32 mi.  (30 or 52 km)
Day 5: Meaux - Lagny-sur-Marne, 15 or 30 mi. (24 or 45  km) 
Day 6: Lagnyo-sur-Marne - Paris, 23 or 32 mi. (38 or 51 km)
Day 7: Departure from Paris

Paris to Epernay (8-day tour)

Day 1: Embarkation in Paris
Day 2: Paris - Lagny, 22 mi. (35 km)
Day 3: Lagny - Meaux - La Ferté sous Jouarre, 22 or 34 mi. (35 or 55 km)
Day 4: La Ferté sous Jouarre - Chateau Thierry, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 5: Chateau Thierry - Dormans, 22 mi. (35 km)
Day 6: Dormans - Epernay, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 7: Excursion to Reims by train
Day 8: Epernay 
 

Day 1: Embarkation in Paris
Arrive at the barge, moored in central Paris, between 12 and 2 PM. Once all guests are on board, the barge will cruise the Seine upstream to the confluence of the rivers Seine and Marne.

Day 2: Paris - Lagny, 22 mi. (35 km)
Leave Paris near the Bois and chateau of Vincennes. The route today is mostly on cycle paths and quiet roads with little traffic.

Day 3: Lagny - Meaux - La Ferté sous Jouarre, 22 or 34 mi. (35 or 55 km)
Explore the region of Brie today, famous around the world for its soft cheese. Cycle into Meaux, famous for its unfinished Gothic cathedral. Some hills after visit to city center. Mooring not far from the little town of La Fertésous-Jouarre. Optional visit to Jouarre (church, abbey, crypt) on the hilltop.

Day 4: La Ferté sous Jouarre - Chateau Thierry, 28 mi. (45 km)
As you cycle the countryside, you will encounter some hills today. Cycle past the vineyards of the Champagne-region and visit Chateau Thierry.

Day 5: Chateau Thierry - Dormans, 22 mi. (35 km)
Today's route is along the river with a few hills. On the agenda is a visit to a park and WWI memorial in Dormans. The afternoon is free to explore Dormans. 

Day 6: Dormans - Epernay, 25 mi. (40 km)
From the mooring near Dormans, cycle through vine-covered fields and over some hillier terrain to Epernay, the center of the Champagne industry. Visit one of the many Champagne houses for a guided tour in the cellars.

Day 7: Excursion to Reims by train
After breakfast, leave the Marne valley to go to the ancient town of Reims by train. The roots of the town date back to the Roman empire. There is a Forum and the Porte de Mars, a monumental triumphal arch.

This day has two highlights:

• A visit to the Cathedral de Notre Dame. Until 1825, the coronation of all kings took place in this cathedral. Destroyed in the Great War it was carefully restored in its old glory.

• Visit of one of the largest Champagne brands: Pommery. The famous Heidsieck champagne originates from this house. Over 100,000 bottles are stored here. If you already have seen and tasted enough champagne, you can pay a visit to the Musée des Beaux Arts or walk around town.

Day 8: Epernay 
Tour ends after breakfast. 

Epernay to Paris (8-day tour)

Day 1: Arrival in Epernay, 9 mi. (15 km) 
Day 2: Visit of Reims
Day 3: Epernay - Chatillon sur Marne, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 4: Chatillon sur Marne/Dormans - Château Thierry, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 5: Chateau Thierry - La Ferté sous Jouarre, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 6: La Ferté sous Jouarre - Meaux - Lagny, 22 or 34 mi. (35 or 55 km)
Day 7: Lagny - Paris, 22 mi. (35 km)
Day 8: Paris
 

Day 1: Arrival in Epernay, 9 mi. (15 km) 
After arrival on board, you will settle into your cabin and try out your rental bikes. Enjoy a glass of Champagne aboard during the welcome meeting!

Day 2: Visit of Reims
After a short train ride, visit the ancient town of Reims. Until 1825, the coronation of all kings took place in the cathedral of Reims. 

This day has two highlights:

• A visit to the Cathedral de Notre Dame. Until 1825, the coronation of all kings took place in this cathedral. Destroyed in the Great War it was carefully restored in its old glory.

• Visit of one of the largest Champagne brands: Pommery. The famous Heidsieck champagne originates from this house. Over 100,000 bottles are stored here. If you already have seen and tasted enough champagne, you can pay a visit to the Musée des Beaux-Arts or walk around town.

Day 3: Epernay - Chatillon sur Marne, 25 mi. (40 km)
Ride from Epernay, a center of Champagne with the most famous Champagne enterprises. A visit to one of the champagne production houses is planned including a guided tour in the cellars. Ride around the champagne area. Optional is a visit to Hautevillers, well-known because of Dom Perignon. Enjoy the landscape as you cycle the valley. Visit the birthplace of pope Urban II (the Pope who started the medieval crusade, statue high upon the hill, at Chatillon sur Marne).

Day 4: Chatillon sur Marne/Dormans - Château Thierry, 28 mi. (45 km)
Today's bike ride begins at 9 AM in or near Dormans. A visit to the war monument in park is planned. You'll encounter some slopes in the vineyard region. Cycle along the river to the town of Chateau Thierry. 

Day 5: Chateau Thierry - La Ferté sous Jouarre, 28 mi. (45 km)
Start the bike ride at 9 AM. As you cycle along the river, you'll encounter some hills. Optional is a visit to the abbey of Jouarre. Mooring in or near La Ferté sous Jouarre.

Day 6: La Ferté sous Jouarre - Meaux - Lagny, 22 or 34 mi. (35 or 55 km)
From Champagne into the Brie region, ride into Meaux, the capital of the soft white, Brie cheese. Meaux is also known for its unfinished cathedral.

Day 7: Lagny - Paris, 22 mi. (35 km)
Cycle along the river into Paris on quiet bike trails. The presence of the big city is visible, but the route is mostly on roads with fairly low traffic. You'll enter the city near the Vincennes park and castle and meet the ship near the Bassin de la Villette at the confluence of Marne and Seine. 

Day 8: Epernay
The tour ends after breakfast.